Kaiyi Auto, a manufacturer with deep ties to Chery, has officially launched the E-Qute 04 Max (also known as the Shiyue Max) in China. This new “Max” trim of its mini hatchback aims to offer more power and better technology at a highly aggressive price point, starting between 47,900 and 51,900 yuan (approximately $7,000 – $7,600 USD).
Upgraded Specs and Tech-Focused Interior
The E-Qute 04 Max introduces several key hardware and software improvements over the standard model:
- Enhanced Powertrain: The vehicle features an upgraded 55 kW (74 hp) front-axle motor.
- Improved Battery: It utilizes a 28.08 kWh LFP battery pack from CATL, providing a CLTC-rated range of 310 km.
- Fast Charging: The car supports DC fast charging, capable of moving from a 30% to 80% charge in roughly 30 minutes.
- Modernized Cabin: Moving away from traditional physical buttons, the interior adopts a minimalist, tech-centric layout. This includes a new 12.8-inch central infotainment screen and a revised driver display.
- Revised Design: The exterior features updated bumpers with dual side vents (replacing the previous enclosed grill) and repositioned rear fog lamps.
Notably, while the interior feels more modern, the seating capacity has been reduced from five passengers to four.
Navigating the “A0-Class” Price War
The E-Qute 04 Max enters the hyper-competitive “A0-class” mini-EV segment, competing directly with heavyweights like the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and the Geely Panda Mini.
In this market, success is driven by two main factors: “cute” aesthetics and aggressive pricing. Because profit margins per vehicle are incredibly slim, manufacturers must rely on massive sales volumes to remain viable.
However, technical limitations remain a concern for budget EVs. While Kaiyi claims the LFP battery can pre-heat in low temperatures, there is little information regarding a liquid cooling system. Without robust thermal management, these vehicles may suffer from “rapidgating” —a phenomenon where charging speeds drop significantly as the battery overheats during use.
The Struggle for Survival: Kaiyi’s Market Position
The launch of the E-Qute 04 Max comes at a challenging time for Kaiyi. Once a Chery sub-brand known as Cowin, the company was eventually transferred to the municipal government of Yibin, with Chery retaining only an 18% stake.
The company’s recent performance highlights the difficulty of competing in China’s current automotive landscape:
– Low Sales Volume: According to China EV Datatracker, Kaiyi delivered only 1,900 units in March 2026, with the E-Qute 04 accounting for just 181 of those sales.
– Shrinking Strongholds: Kaiyi has traditionally relied on buyers in rural areas and lower-tier cities. However, as major automakers engage in a massive price war, even these budget-conscious consumers are beginning to opt for more established, high-value brands.
While the E-Qute 04 Max offers a much-needed tech refresh, Kaiyi’s survival may depend on its ability to pivot away from the saturated domestic market and find success in international territories.
Conclusion
The E-Qute 04 Max is a strategic attempt by Kaiyi to bolster its lineup with a more capable, tech-forward mini-EV. However, given the intense price competition and low recent sales, the vehicle’s success will depend on whether Kaiyi can find a niche in an increasingly crowded and price-sensitive market.
